Haaretz Podcast

Gilad Kariv, an ordained Reform rabbi and Member of Knesset, discusses the rising tide of religious extremism within the Likud Party, warning that it’s not the same party it was decades ago. He shares a shocking personal experience of being ejected from a Knesset committee for advocating Reform Judaism. Kariv raises concerns about the integrity of upcoming elections, claiming tactics to suppress Arab voters are emerging. He calls for proactive political engagement to safeguard democracy in Israel amidst increasing intolerance and division.

Nir Hasson, a Haaretz correspondent known for his coverage of the Gaza war, shares insights from his investigative report revealing troubling orders given to IDF soldiers. The soldiers expressed moral dilemmas about using live fire against unarmed Palestinians seeking aid. Amir Tibon, a seasoned columnist and former diplomatic correspondent, discusses the political fallout and implications of these revelations on Israeli sentiments and ceasefire negotiations. Together, they highlight the profound disconnect between military actions and humanitarian values.

Hagar Shezaf, Haaretz's West Bank correspondent, sheds light on the alarming rise of violence from Israeli settlers, emboldened by far-right government support. She details recent attacks on Palestinian communities and even IDF soldiers, a shocking shift in dynamics that has drawn widespread public outrage. The discussion delves into how normalization of aggression post-October 7 has altered perceptions within Israeli society, posing critical questions about accountability and the future of the region amid ongoing conflicts.

Shira Efron, Research Director at the Israel Policy Forum and former leader of the Israel program at RAND Corporation, discusses the delicate balance of military success against Iran and the urgent need for diplomatic measures to prevent nuclear development. She reflects on the challenges in bringing Iran back to the negotiation table after perceived betrayals. Efron contrasts the quick U.S.-imposed ceasefire in the Iran conflict with the enduring quagmire in Gaza, emphasizing the human cost and the necessity for a comprehensive regional peace.

In this discussion, Danny Citrinowicz, a senior researcher at the Institute for National Security Studies, examines Israel's aggressive military strategy against Iran. He warns that targeting non-military sites, like Evin Prison, could backfire and erode military successes. Citrinowicz expresses serious doubts about the lack of a clear exit strategy, suggesting it might lead to an endless conflict. He also addresses the consequences of extreme actions, like attempting to assassinate Iran's leader, potentially igniting a more profound religious dispute. Meanwhile, listeners hear poignant stories from Tel Aviv residents seeking safety amid missile threats.

Amir Tibon, a renowned Haaretz columnist and former diplomatic correspondent, shares insights on the recent military confrontations between Israel and Iran. He reveals the complex emotional landscape in Israel—where triumph and fear coexist—while emphasizing public support for the conflict. Tibon discusses the strategic implications of the U.S.-Israel relationship, describing a deliberate trap set for Iran before the strikes. Meanwhile, Professor Amit Schejter recounts his struggles as an Israeli caught abroad due to airport closures, illustrating the personal impact of the ongoing crisis.

Amos Harel, a senior security analyst at Haaretz, discusses the dire consequences of Israel’s preemptive strikes against Iran and the potential escalation of the conflict. He emphasizes the significant military capabilities Iran is developing, including an alarming increase in ballistic missiles. Judy Rowland, a Tel Aviv resident, shares her chilling account of surviving a missile attack that hit her apartment, capturing the chaos and fear that civilians experience amid such violence. Their insights reveal the grim realities and complexities of this escalating war.

In this engaging discussion, journalist Rachel Fink delves into the controversy surrounding Avner Netanyahu’s extravagant wedding amidst ongoing conflict in Gaza. She explains how anti-war protesters plan to disrupt the celebration, viewing it as an insensitive act during a humanitarian crisis. While some argue against protesting personal events, fearing backlash, Fink illustrates the deep divisions in Israeli society regarding the balance between public dissent and private joy. The wedding becomes a symbol of broader societal tensions and emotional turmoil.

Nir Hasson, a journalist for Haaretz covering humanitarian issues, delves into Israel's controversial actions in Gaza. He argues that the new aid initiatives are politically motivated to help Netanyahu maintain power. Hasson reveals the dire conditions in Gaza, where evacuation warnings fail to protect civilians, and voices the growing discontent among Israelis about the ongoing violence. Their conversation uncovers the moral complexities of aid distribution and the unprecedented suffering experienced by the population.

Dahlia Scheindlin, a Haaretz columnist and public opinion expert specializing in Israeli politics, discusses the striking disconnect between the ongoing trial of Prime Minister Netanyahu and the urgent concerns of the Israeli public amidst the Gaza conflict. She highlights widespread frustration over Netanyahu's situation and the trivialization of serious issues, exemplified by courtroom antics. Additionally, Scheindlin addresses the brewing political crisis as ultra-Orthodox tensions could lead to new elections, reflecting the precarious balance of Israeli governance.